The headspace is easily checked by a gunsmith. Also try a different type of ammo

Deadman

June 4, 2003, 09:34 AM

Yes I understand that it is easy to check if the headspacing is correct or not with a gauge, but what exactly must be done to fix a potential problem?
Do parts need to be replaced? Or does the bolt need to be realigned in some fashion?

Clemson

June 4, 2003, 10:13 AM

The normal cure for excess Mauser headspace is to remove the barrel, set the shoulder and barrel shank forward by one thread, insuring that the sights index to the proper point at top dead center, reinstall the barrel, ream the chamber to correct the (now) too short headspace, and test fire. The gunsmith will need a lathe, reamer, headspace gauges, and test ammunition. Whatever you pay him, it probably won't be enough.

Clemson

RON in PA

June 4, 2003, 10:36 AM

Doesn't sound like a headspace problem to me, more of an ammo problem.

Deadman

June 5, 2003, 08:54 AM

Thanks Clemson thats pretty much what I wanted to know.

As for ammo, I only have Radway Green at the moment and all the gunstores here seem to have run out of other types of 7.62nato...